Digital x-ray camera

ABSTRACT

Portable x-ray devices and methods for using such devices are described. The devices have an x-ray tube powered by an integrated power system. The x-ray tube is shielded with a low-density insulating material containing a high-Z substance. The devices can also have an integrated display component. With these components, the size and weight of the x-ray devices can be reduced and the portability of the devices enhanced. The x-ray devices also have an x-ray detecting means that is not structurally attached to the device and therefore is free standing. Consequently, the x-ray devices can also be used as a digital x-ray camera. The portable x-ray devices are especially useful for applications where portability is an important feature such as in field work, remote operations, and mobile operations such as nursing homes, home healthcare, or teaching classrooms. This portability feature can be particularly useful in multi-suite medical and dental offices where a single x-ray device can be used as a digital x-ray camera in multiple offices instead of requiring a separate device in every office.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No.60/546,575, filed on Feb. 20, 2004, the entire disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to x-ray devices and methods for usingthe same. More particularly, the invention relates to portable x-raydevices that contain an unattached x-ray detector, methods for usingsuch portable x-ray devices as a digital x-ray camera, and systemscontaining such portable x-ray devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typical x-ray tubes and x-ray devices (device containing x-ray tubes)have been known and used for some time. Unfortunately, they are usuallybulky and are powered by heavy, high-voltage power supplies thatrestrict mobility. As well, they are often difficult and time-consumingto use. In many instances, a sample for analysis must be sent to anoff-site laboratory for analysis by the x-ray device.

These limitations can be very inconvenient for many popular uses ofx-ray devices containing them. Such uses include x-ray fluorescence(XRF) of soil, water, metals, ores, well bores, etc., as well asdiffraction and plating thickness measurements. Typical x-ray imagingapplications require the sample to be imaged to be brought to the x-raydevice. These limitations have led to an increased interest in makingx-ray devices portable. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,661,876,6,459,767, 6,038,287, and 6,205,200; U.S. Published Patent Applications2003/0048877, 2003/0002627, and 2003/0142788; and European Patent Nos.EP0946082, EP0524064, EP0247758, EP0784965, and EP0488991; the entiredisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Many of these existing designs increase the portability of x-raydevices. At the same time, however, these designs are limited forseveral reasons. First, most of the designs are not truly portable sincethey have an external power source (i.e., require utility-supplied linevoltage). Second, while some of the portable designs, especially the XRFsystems, have internal or “integrated” power supplies, they don't havethe high x-ray tube current load that is often necessary for x-rayimaging. For example, energy-dispersive XRF typically requires x-raybeam currents of less than 1 milliampere while x-ray imaging typicallyrequires greater than about 2 milliamperes. Finally, the radiationshielding for the x-ray tubes usually comprises lead, which is quiteheavy and limits the portability of the device.

A further limitation on design of the increased portability is the imagedisplay components. High-quality imaging displays for displaying theresults of the x-ray analysis are difficult to integrate into the designof the housing of the portable x-ray device. Consequently, many of theportable designs have the image display component external to thechassis or housing containing the x-ray tube.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to portable x-ray devices and methods for usingsuch devices. The x-ray devices have an x-ray tube powered by anintegrated power system. The x-ray tube is shielded with a low-densityinsulating material containing a high-Z substance. The x-ray devices canalso have an integrated display component. With these components, thesize and weight of the x-ray devices can be reduced and the portabilityof the devices enhanced. The x-ray devices can also have detecting meansthat is not structurally attached to the device and therefore is freestanding. Consequently, the x-ray devices can also be used as a digitalx-ray camera. The portable x-ray devices are especially useful forapplications where portability is an important feature such as in fieldwork, remote operations, and mobile operations such as nursing homes,home healthcare, or teaching classrooms. This portability feature can beparticularly useful in multi-suite medical and dental offices where asingle x-ray device can be used as a digital x-ray camera in multipleoffices instead of requiring a separate device in every office.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following description of the invention can be understood in light ofthe Figures, in which:

FIGS. 1-2 depict the x-ray device in one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 3 depicts the x-ray device in another aspect of the invention;

FIG. 4 depicts the x-ray device in another aspect of the invention;

FIG. 5 depicts the x-ray tube and power supply of the x-ray device inone aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 6-7 depict the power source of the x-ray device and method forconnecting the power source to the x-ray device in one aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 8 depicts the x-ray tube of the x-ray device in one aspect of theinvention;

FIG. 9 depicts a conventional x-ray tube in a conventionalconfiguration;

FIGS. 10-12 depicts the x-ray device in one aspect of the invention; and

FIGS. 13-17 depicts the x-ray in another aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 1-17 illustrate specific aspects of the invention and are a partof the specification.

In the Figures, the thickness and configuration of components may beexaggerated for clarity. The same reference numerals in differentdrawings represent the same component. Together with the followingdescription, the Figures demonstrate and explain the principles of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description provides specific details in order to providea thorough understanding of the invention. The skilled artisan, however,would understand that the invention can be practiced without employingthese specific details. Indeed, the invention can be practiced bymodifying the illustrated method and resulting product and can be usedin conjunction with apparatus and techniques conventionally used in theindustry. While the invention is described for use in x-ray imaging fordental purposes, it could be used in other medical applications such asmedical imaging, veterinary, and bone densitometry. As well, it could beused for non-dental and non-medical applications such as industrialimaging, metal fatigue inspections, weld-inspection for cracks/voids andpipes, for security inspections allowing random inspection of parcelsand carry-on baggage, and the like.

As described above, the invention includes a portable x-ray device thatis used primarily for remote and/or office applications, including inmulti-suite office locations. The x-ray device can be designed to beeither handheld or temporarily fixed to a given location, such as atripod-mount operation. As well, the invention could be mounted on anyother semi-stable apparatus, such as an articulating arm or C-arm ascommonly used in radiology applications and described in thepublications mentioned above.

The x-ray device of the invention is portable in that it can betransported by hand carrying it from one location to a second locationwithout support by any mechanical apparatus. Because it uses anintegrated power system, the location of its use can be independent ofany external fixed power source, such as utility-supplied AC voltageoften required in the home or office. As well, the x-ray device containsdetecting means that is not structurally attached to the device andtherefore is free standing. This independence from an external powersource and free-standing detecting means are particularly usefulfeatures of the x-ray devices of the invention.

In the aspect of the invention shown in FIGS. 1-2, the x-ray device 10of the invention contains a housing or chassis 20 to contain all theinternal components of the device. The housing 20 encloses an x-ray tube30 for producing the x-rays. The x-ray device 10 contains a power system(including power source 40) to provide power for the device 10 and meansfor detecting the x-rays, such as film, CCD sensors, or imaging plates(not shown). The x-ray device 10 also contains means for displaying theresults of the analysis such as an integrated image display screen 60(shown in FIG. 4); control means such as controller 70; and radiationshielding 80 to shield the operator of the device from backscatteredradiation from the sample.

The x-ray device 10 also contains any other components known in the artfor efficient operation (such as x-ray collimator 32), including thosecomponents described in the documents mentioned above.

The x-ray device 10 contains a unique system for providing power to thex-ray device. The power system of the x-ray device comprises a powersource 40, power supply 34, and conversion means. The power source 40used in the x-ray device of the invention can be any known in the artthat can supply the desired amount of power, yet fit within the spacelimitations of the x-ray device. In one aspect of the invention, thepower source comprises a battery, such as a 14.4V NiCd battery pack. Thepower source can be recharged by any suitable means, such as byconnection to an appropriate voltage when using batteries that arere-chargeable.

In one aspect of the invention, the power source 40 is removable fromthe remainder of the x-ray device 10. In this aspect of the invention,the power source 40 comprises mechanical and electrical means forconnecting the power source 40 to the x-ray device 10. The electricaland mechanical connection means can be any of those known in the art. Asdepicted in FIG. 6, the electrical connection means can comprise anextension member 41 with an electrical connector 42 contained in anupper portion thereof. The mechanical connection means comprises arelease mechanism 43 a.

As shown in FIG. 7, the x-ray device 10 contains a locking mechanism 43b. To connect the power source 40 to the x-ray device 10, the powersource 40 is gently pushed into the bottom of the handle 15 of the x-raydevice 10. When completely connected, the electrical connector 42connects with the internal electronics of the x-ray device 10. Thelocking mechanism 43 b is automatically engaged to retain the powersource 40 connected to the x-ray device 10 in this position. To removethe power source 40, the release mechanism 43 a is actuated to unlockthe locking mechanism 43 b, and the power source 40 can be gently slidout from the handle 15.

The power source 40 is electrically connected to the conversion meansusing any connection means known in the art, including those describedin the publications above. The conversion means converts the initialvoltage supplied by the power source 40 to a converted voltage that isprovided to the power supply 34. The conversion means generally convertsthe 14.4V (or similar voltage) provided by the power source 40 to avoltage ranging from about 80 to about 200V. In one aspect of theinvention, the initial voltage is converted to a converted voltage ofabout 100V. Any conversion means known in the art that operates in thismanner can be used in the invention, including the power managementboards 36.

The conversion means is electrically connected to the power supply 34.The power supply 34 steps up the converted voltage (i.e., the 100V)provided by the conversion means to a voltage that can be used by thex-ray tube 30. The power produced by the power supply 34 and input intothe x-ray tube 30 via connection 35 (shown in FIG. 8) depends on thepower needed to operate the x-ray tube, and the maximum power availablefrom the power source. Generally, the power provided by the power supply34 to the x-ray tube 30 can range from about 20 to about 150 kV.Typically, this power provided by the power supply can range from about40 kV to about 100 kV.

In one aspect of the invention, the power provided by the power supplyis provided by a plurality of individual power supplies. The number ofindividual power supplies used depends on the voltage needed for thex-ray tube, the space needed for the power supply 34, the total poweravailable from the power source, and the number of electron-acceleratinggrids in the x-ray tube. In one aspect of the invention, the pluralityof individual power supplies is two (as represented in FIG. 5 by 45, 46)where 45 supplies positive voltage to the anode and 46 supplies negativevoltage to the cathode.

The power provided by each individual power supply depends on the numberof individual power supplies used, the maximum power available from thepower source, and the heat-dissipating capability of the x-ray tube.Generally, the power supplied by each individual power supply is thetotal power needed to operate the x-ray tube divided by the number ofindividual power supplies. For example, the power provided by eachindividual power supply (when there are 2) can range from about 20 kV toabout 50 kV. In one aspect of the invention, the power provided by eachindividual power supply (when there are 2) is about +35 kV and −35 kV.In this embodiment, the +35 kV is attached to the anode of the x-raytube and the −35 kV is attached to the cathode of the x-ray tube. Afilament transformer is included in the cathode power supply to providecurrent to the x-ray tube filament and generate an electron beam at thecathode of the tube. The total power produced by the power supply istherefore the sum of the individual anode power supply and theindividual cathode power supply.

When such individual low voltage power supplies are used, the x-ray tube30 of the invention becomes more portable. Conventional x-ray tubesoperate at much higher voltages in the range of 70 kV and higher.Because of these high voltages, and the need for the high voltagestandoff, the conventional x-ray tube 300 is often encased in insulatingoil 302 (or a similar material) within a liquid-tight case 306 as shownin FIG. 9. The oil 302 also has the advantage of dissipating the hightemperatures that existed during operation. By splitting the neededoperation voltage into 2 (or more) individual power supplies, theindividual power. supplies only need to provide (and also stand off)half of the higher voltage.

With these lower voltages, the x-ray tube 30 of the invention can beencapsulated in materials other than high-density oil. These othermaterials need only insulate proportionately to the reduced voltage,i.e., these other materials need only insulate half as much as oil sincethe voltage produced is about half of that conventionally used. Anyknown material that can insulate in this manner can be used in theinvention, including low-density materials like insulating gel, siliconerubber, epoxy, or combinations thereof. The insulating material isprovided in a layer 33 that substantially encapsulates the x-ray tube 30except for that portion of the tube where x-rays are actually emitted bythe tube (i.e., into the x-ray collimator 32).

The thickness of the layer of insulating material 33 need only besufficient for the purpose indicated above. Generally, the thickness ofthe insulating material can range from about ¼ inch to about 1 inch. Inone aspect of the invention, such as where silicone rubber is used, thethickness of the insulating material can range from about ⅓ inch toabout ½ inch. In another aspect of the invention, the insulatingmaterial comprises a dual-layer around the x-ray tube with the firstlayer comprising one of the insulating materials and the second layercomprising another of the insulating materials.

Eliminating the need to use the high-density oil provides a significantreduction in the weight of the unit. An added advantage is that there isno need for a liquid-tight case 306 to hold the liquid oil 302. Indeed,when a solid material is used such as silicone rubber, there is no needfor any case, even though one can optionally be used. In one aspect ofthe invention by removing the case, and instead using silicon rubberthat is conformal with the x-ray tube, the total volume of theinsulating material is reduced significantly.

As shown in FIG. 9, conventional x-ray tubes 300 also contain ashielding to absorb stray x-rays that are emitted from the x-ray tube.The shielding usually was made of lead and incorporated into theliquid-tight case 306. Lead is conventionally used because of itsexcellent x-ray absorption properties. But lead shielding is quite heavyand consequently limits the portability of the x-ray device. With thex-ray device of the invention, this lead shielding has been eliminated,thereby increasing the portability by reducing the need for anadditional component in the x-ray device. Instead, the insulatingmaterial (i.e., silicone rubber) has dispersed,within it a high-Zmaterial. The high-Z material absorbs any stray x-rays that are emitted.Any high-Z material known in the art can be used, including compounds ofPb, W, Ta, Bi, Ba, or combinations thereof.

The concentration of the high-Z material in the insulating material needonly be sufficient to absorb the expected amount of stray x-rays.Typically, the concentration of the high-Z material can range from about30 wt % to about 60 wt %. In one aspect of the invention, theconcentration of the high-Z material can range from about 45 wt % toabout 50 wt %. In one aspect of the invention, the insulating materialalso contains substances that are known to optimize the thermalconductivity, such as metallic particles, or inclusions ofhigh-thermal-conductivity materials.

The x-ray device of the invention optionally contains shielding 80 forthe operator. When in operation, x-rays can often backscatter from theobject being analyzed, such as the teeth of a patient, and strike theoperator. The shielding 80 is used to protect the operator from suchaberrant radiation. In one aspect of the invention, the shielding usedis a Pb-filled acrylic radiation scatter shield.

The x-ray device of the invention also contains control means foroperating the x-ray device. Any controls known in the art can be used inthe control means of the invention. Examples of such controls include upand down arrow membrane switches with an LED readout to adjust exposuretime. Indicators can include “power on,” “start,” and “x-rays on” LEDs.In the aspect of the invention illustrated in FIG. 1, the control means(controller 70) is integrated into the housing 20 of the device. Inanother aspect of the invention, the control means (such as controller76) is external to the device and is connected to remainder of thedevice using any known electronic connection, such as cable 72 (See FIG.3). In either instance, the control means also contains a trigger 74that is incorporated into the handle 15 and used by the operator tobegin (and conclude) the x-ray exposure.

The invention also contains means for detecting or sensing the x-rays.Any detecting means known in the art that is sensitive to x-rayradiation can be used in the invention. Examples of such detecting meansinclude x-rays receptors, x-ray film, CCD sensors, CMOS sensors, TFTsensors, imaging plates, and image intensifiers. In one aspect of theinvention, and as illustrated in FIG. 10, a CCD sensor 50 is used as thedetecting means in the x-ray devices of the invention.

The x-ray device may also contain means for displaying the x-raysdetected by the detecting means. Any display means that displays thedetected x-rays in a manner that can be understood by the operator ofthe device can be used for the invention. Examples of displaying meansthat can be used include film, imaging plates, and digital imagedisplays such as cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD)screens. In one aspect of the invention, the display means can be usedas a densitometer for the x-ray absorption.

In one aspect of the invention, the display means is integrated into thehousing of the x-ray device. Such integration, however, will limit thesize of the display means since too large a display means will detractfrom the portability of the device. In this aspect of the invention, anysmall display means with sufficient resolution can be used in theinvention, including liquid crystal display (LCD) screens 60.

In another aspect of the invention, the display means are locatedexternal to the x-ray device. In this aspect, a separate imaging plate(such as a CMOS or TFT plate) for larger features (such as medical orveterinary imaging) can be used. The separate imaging plate can beconnected to the remainder of the x-ray device as known in the art.

In one aspect of the invention, and as illustrated in FIG. 10, the x-raydevice 10 can contain both a detecting means (such as CCD sensor 50),integrated display means (such as the LCD screen 60), and well ascontrol means (such as controller 70). With these components, the sizeof the x-ray device can be minimized and the portability and uses of thex-ray device can be optimized.

The detecting means and the display means can be used to temporarilystore images in the x-ray device. Once the storage capacity for thesetemporary images has been reached, an optional wired or wirelessconnection can then provide seamless update to an external electronicdevice or system, such as a permanent database or a desktop computer asknown in the art. The wired or wireless connection can be made as knownin the art. In one aspect of the invention, this connection is wirelesssince it provides true portability and freedom from line voltage.

In FIG. 10, the detecting means (CCD sensor 50) is not structurallyattached to the x-ray device 10. Thus, in this aspect of the invention,the detecting means is free standing. With some of the known portablex-ray devices, the detecting means is structurally attached to the x-raydevices. Accordingly, the position of the detecting means is fixedrelative to the rest of the x-ray device and when the x-ray devicemoves, so must the detecting means. This movement presents a problem forportable x-ray devices because any motion of the detecting meansrelative to the subject to be imaged result in distortion and blurringof the image. Because the detecting means of the invention isfree-standing, any minor movements of the x-ray device of the inventionwill not result in distortion or blurring. As well, when the detectingmeans (i.e., a CCD sensor) is structurally attached, the x-ray device istypically configured to work with that specific type (e.g., size, shape)of the CCD sensor. The free-standing detecting means, however, can beinterchanged with any given x-ray device without having to substantiallymodify the x-ray device.

In FIG. 10, the detecting means (i.e., CCD sensor 50) communicates withthe x-ray device 10 by any known wireless transmission mechanism.Examples of some wireless transmission mechanisms include 802.11protocols, wireless application protocols (WAP), Bluetooth® technology,or combinations thereof. In one aspect of the invention, Bluetooth®technology is used as the wireless transmission mechanism. Theradiographic image detected by the detecting means (CCD sensor 50) istransmitted to the x-ray device 10 and then viewed via the display means60.

The free-standing detecting means can be customized for analyzing anytype of object. In one aspect of the invention, the CCD sensor can havenon-flat configurations. In other aspects of the invention, the CCDsensor can have different types of shapes (other than the squareillustrated in the Figures), such as rectangular, circular, oblong,polygonal, etc. . . . To achieve larger image areas, arrays of multipledetecting means can be assembled with electronics to resemble a singledetecting means with the desired larger area.

With the free-standing detecting means in this aspect of the invention,the x-ray device 10 is especially useful in the dental industry. Asillustrated in FIG. 11, the x-ray device 10 can be used to analyze atooth 90 (or multiple teeth) of a patient by placing the tooth 90between the x-ray device 10 and the CCD sensor 50 and then operating thedevice. In FIG. 11, the CCD sensor 50 is connected to the x-ray device10 by using any known wiring 55 (or cable) for that sensor to transmitthe radiographic image to the x-ray device 10. A similar aspect of theinvention is illustrated in FIG. 12, except that the wiring 55 has beenreplaced with wireless technology.

In a similar aspect of the invention, the x-ray device can be modifiedslightly to be used in medical industry. In this aspect of theinvention, the size of the detecting means (i.e., CCD sensor or CMOSimaging plate) is increased to capture a larger radiographic image. Thelarger size would depend on the part of the body that is being analyzed,as well as the maximum field size of the x-ray device. Typically, thesize of the detecting means can range up to about 24 inches. In oneaspect of the invention, the size of the detecting means can range fromabout 10 to about 14 inches.

The x-ray device of the invention can also be configured differently inanother aspect of the invention as shown in FIG. 13-16. In this aspectof the invention, the x-ray device 10 contains the same components asx-ray device 10, has been configured to look substantially like atraditional camera. This gives the impression to the operator of thex-ray device 10 that it operates like it looks: a camera, but forcapturing digital radiological images.

As shown in FIG. 13-16, the x-ray device 10 contains housing 120 that issubstantially rectangular in shape. In this aspect of the invention, thehousing 120 does not contain a handle. Rather, the housing 120 cancontain a protruding shape 122 that provides the operator with a bettergrip than a flat surface. Of course, the x-ray device 110 could containsimilar features for the handling and operation of the device, such astexturing the surface for easier gripping or by providing indentations.

Like the x-ray device 10, the x-ray device 110 contains similar internalcomponents such as an x-ray tube and an integrated power system. Theseinternal components operate in substantially the same manner as x-raydevice 10, but have been configured within the housing 120 toaccommodate a different shape. As well, the x-ray device 110 containscontrol means (not shown), including trigger 174, radiation shielding180, and any other components known in the art for efficient operation(such as x-ray collimator 132), including those components described inthe documents mentioned above.

The x-ray device 110 also contains means for displaying the results ofthe analysis. In this aspect of the invention, the x-ray device 110contains an integrated display means, like LCD screen 160. As shown inFIG. 16, the removeable LCD screen 160 is configured to fit easilywithin a hollow portion 176 in the rear of the device 110 where it canbe easily viewed by the operator. Of course, external display meanscould also be used in the invention.

In one aspect of the invention, the display means and the control meansare combined into a single means: a controllable display means. Thecontrollable display means controls the operation of the x-ray device,as well as controls and manipulates the image display. The controllabledisplay means can be either integrated into the x-ray device 110 or canbe external to the x-ray device 110. Any controllable display meansknown in the art that operates in this manner can be used in theinvention. One example of a controllable display means comprises aportable electronic device 165, such as a personal digital assistant(PDA), a handheld computer (like an iPAQ® Pocket PC), or a conventionalcamera-style LCD screen.

Using the portable electronic device with the x-ray device providesimproved flexibility. For example, the portable electronicdevice—including both the hardware and the software—can be upgradedwithout needing to change the x-ray device itself. As well, the softwarein the portable electronic device can be used for image analysis, imageenhancement, and for diagnosis at the point of image capture. Further,the x-ray device can be upgraded or modified with having to change theportable electronic device. Indeed, the portable electronic device couldbe customized so that any individual could take the customized settingsand use them with any similar x-ray device.

The controllable display means can be connected to the x-ray device 110by wired or wireless technology. As shown in FIG. 17, the x-ray device110 (including hollow portion 176) could be adapted to containconventional interfaces in the hollow portion 176 for a portableelectronic device 165. Thus, the portable electronic device 165 ismechanically and electrically connected to the x-ray device when placedin hollow portion 176. As well, the portable electronic device 165 couldbe electrically connected to the x-ray device 110 using conventionalwiring. Finally, the portable electronic device 165 could be remotelyconnected to the x-ray device using any conventional wirelesstechnology.

Using the portable electronic device with the x-ray device 110 alsoincreases the functionality of the x-ray device. For example, theportable electronic device could contain a temporary patient database.With flash memory storage devices, the patient database could be locatedon the portable electronic device and accessed when using the x-raydevice. In another example, imaging software on the portable electronicdevice could allow for determining and manipulating features in theimage, such as dental carries (cavities), breaks in bones, cracks inwelds or pipes, identification of suspect shapes in security imaging,etc. . . .

Indeed, any function currently performed on a desktop computer orworkstation could be performed right at the x-ray device, includingcontrast enhancement, image sharpening, smoothing, reverse shading,assignment of colors for different density materials, determination ofrelative densities,. etc. . . . All of these functions, as well asothers, could be performed with the portable electronic device attachedto the x-ray device, or with it operating remotely. The portableelectronic device could then interface with any known externalelectronic device (such as a storage device, office computer, orworkstation) using wired or wirelessly technology to transfer dataand/or information. As well, the portable electronic device (andtherefore the x-ray device) could utilize the additional capabilitiesprovided by the external electronic device.

The x-ray devices of the invention can be made in any manner thatprovides the device with the components in this configuration describedabove. The housing, x-ray tube, detection means, display means, controlmeans, radiation shielding, power source, and conversion means can beprovided as known in the art and as described in the publicationsdisclosed above. The insulating material can be made by mixing theneeded amount of high-Z substance (such as an oxide of a heavy metal)into the insulating material (such as the silicone potting material whenthe A and B parts of the silicone are mixed together). The resultingcombination is thoroughly mixed, and then uniformly provided around thex-ray tube, such as by pouring into an encapsulating mold. In this way,the insulating material containing the high-Z substance is uniformlydistributed throughout the layer surrounding the x-ray tube.

When making the power supply, the process will be illustrated with twoindividual power supplies. Each power supply is configured so that thegrounded ends of each power supply are located near the center of thex-ray tube. The positive voltage from one supply is provided to one sideof the x-ray tube, and the negative voltage from the other supply isprovided to other end of the x-ray tube. In this configuration, themaximum voltage (i.e., the sum of both) can be isolated from eachindividual power supply along the full length of the -x-ray tube and theisolation from ground only needs to be ½ of the total voltage.Consequently, the insulating paths need only be ½ the length.

The x-ray device can be operated in any manner that provides aradiographic image. In one aspect of the invention, the x-ray device 10(or 110) of the invention can be operated by first actuating theappropriate button on the control means to turn on the device. Aftersetting the exposure time, an “enable” button is pressed. This “enable”acts as a safety switch, preventing initiation of the x-ray exposureuntil the operator has positioned the instrument in the correct locationand prepares to pull the trigger.

Then, on pulling the trigger (or pressing the “start” button) the highvoltage (HV) supplied by the power supply 34 will increase up to about70 kV (i.e., one power supply at about +35 kV and the other at about −35kV). When this HV level is reached, the filament will energize at itsfull setpoint to supply the needed emission current to the x-ray tube.The filament will remain at this level for the time designated by theoperator (i.e., by-using the controls). The start indicator in the LEDof the control means can illuminate upon pressing the trigger. The“x-rays on” indicator in the LED of the control means can illuminateduring the entire time that the emission current for the x-ray tube ispresent. Additionally, an audible signal can be used to indicate thatthe x-rays are being emitted.

During exposure after pressing the trigger 74 (or 174), x-rays areemitted from the x-ray tube 30 and strike the object being-analyzed,i.e., the teeth of a patient when the x-ray device is being used fordental purposes. To meet x-ray equipment standards, the button ortrigger 74 (or 174) must be held down during the full length of theexposure. During exposure, the x-rays are used for analysis of theobject as known in the art by using the detection means. The operatorcan then view the results of the analysis in the display means andoptionally download the images to an external electronic device.

Following the exposure of a patient with the x-rays, the filament willturn off (along with the “x-rays on” indicator) and the HV will rampdown. Once the HV is off, the start indicator in the LED of thecontroller will turn off and the x-ray device will return to a standbycondition. In one aspect of the invention, the operator may need tore-enter the exposure time before starting the next exposure. Thisre-entering process can be accomplished with a “ready.” indicator in theLED of the control means after the exposure time has been set.

The x-ray device of the invention can be modified to contain additionaloptional features, including any of those described in the publicationsmentioned above. For example, to increase battery life, the x-ray devicecan contain an automatic shut off feature that shuts the device offafter 2 minutes without an x-ray exposure. Another feature that can beadded, for example, is to manufacture the housing or chassis 20 (or 120)of a high-impact material (such as ABS or a plastic alloy of ABS andother materials, designed for high-impact resistance) to reduce the riskof damage.

The x-ray device of the invention can also be made as part of a systemfor x-ray analysis. The system could contain any components that aid inthe operation of the x-ray device or the x-ray analysis, including thosementioned above such as an external means for storing the radiographicimages. As well, the system could also include a hard-side carryingcase, an “industrial strength” tripod, a 3 meter long umbilical cord toa remote control panel 76, or the like. The system could also contain aback-up power source 40. Finally, the system could also contain any ofthose components described in the documents mentioned above.

Using the x-ray device of the invention provides several improvementsover conventional devices. First, the x-ray device of the inventioncontains an integrated power system. The power system can bebattery-operated, yet still provide a continuous high voltage, ratherthan Marx generators (pulsed) or capacitively-pulsed systems. Thus, thex-ray device can maintain a continuous DC high voltage supply and cangenerate a high voltage for a few seconds with each high currentdischarge. The high storage capacity provided by the batteries allowshundreds of discharges, anywhere from about 10 to about 20 amps for afew seconds. For most applications, including for dental purposes, thex-ray devices of the invention need less than a second for eachexposure.

Most conventional x-ray devices, however, have external power supplies.Those conventional x-ray devices that do have integrated power supplies,still don't have the high current load described above. Thus, the powersystem of the invention can provide a constant radiation output andimproved image quality while reducing the x-ray dosage to which theobject (i.e., patient) is exposed.

Another improvement in the x-ray devices of the invention exists in theshielding for the x-ray tubes. Conventional x-ray tubes are shieldedwith a liquid oil encasement and lead shielding, both of which are bulkyand heavy. Both of these components are eliminated in the x-ray tubeshielding of the invention. Instead, the shielding of the inventioncontains a low-density insulating material that contains high-Zsubstances. This configuration leads to reduced material count andgenerally lower weight.

Other improvements result from the free-standing detecting means and theportable electronic device. With the free-standing detecting means,better images can be obtained even if the x-ray device moves. As well,the free-standing detecting means is more interchangeable with the x-raydevice. When the portable electronic device is used with the x-raydevice, the functionality (i.e., image display and manipulation) andinterchangeability of the devices is greatly improved.

In addition to any previously indicated variation, numerous othermodifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by thoseskilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention and appended claims are intended to cover such modificationsand arrangements. Thus, while the invention has been described abovewith particularity and detail in connection with what is presentlydeemed to be the most practical and preferred aspects of the invention,it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerousmodifications, including but not limited to, form, function, manner ofoperation and use may be made without departing from the principles andconcepts set forth herein.

1. A portable x-ray device, comprising: a housing containing an x-raysource and an integrated power system containing an internal powersource; integrated display means comprising an LCD screen; and detectingmeans structurally unattached to the housing.
 2. The device of claim 1,wherein the detecting means is electrically coupled to the x-ray device.3. The device of claim 1, wherein the detecting means electricallycommunicates with the x-ray device using wireless technology.
 4. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the device is a hand-held device.
 5. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the device has a high current load forradiographic imaging.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein the power sourcecan be removed from the housing.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein thepower system comprises a plurality of power supplies with each powersupply providing a power ranging from about 20 kV to about 50 kV.
 8. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the x-ray source is shielded with alow-density insulating material containing a high-Z substance.
 9. Ahand-held x-ray device, comprising: a housing containing an x-raysource, an integrated power system containing an internal power source,and integrated display means comprising an LCD screen; and detectingmeans structurally unattached to the housing.
 10. The device of claim 9,wherein the power source can be removed from the housing.
 11. The deviceof claim 9, wherein the power system comprises a plurality of powersupplies with each power supply providing a power ranging from about 20kV to about 50 kV.
 12. The device of claim 9, wherein the x-ray sourceis shielded with a low-density insulating material containing a high-Zsubstance.
 13. A digital x-ray camera, comprising: a housing containingan x-ray source, an integrated power system containing an internal powersource, and integrated display means comprising an LCD screen; anddetecting means structurally unattached to the housing.
 14. The cameraof claim 13, wherein the power system comprises a plurality of powersupplies with each power supply providing a power ranging from about 20kV to about 50 kV.
 15. The camera of claim 13, wherein the x-ray sourceis shielded with a low-density insulating material containing a high-Zsubstance.
 16. A system for x-ray analysis, the system containing adigital x-ray camera with a housing containing an x-ray source, anintegrated power system with an internal power source, and an integrateddisplay means comprising an LCD screen, and detecting means structurallyunattached to the housing.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the powersystem comprises a plurality of power supplies with each power supplyproviding a power ranging from about 20 kV to about 50 kV.
 18. Thesystem of claim 16, wherein x-ray source is shielded with a low-densityinsulating material containing a high-Z substance.
 19. A method formaking a portable x-ray device, the method comprising: providing ahousing with an x-ray source and an integrated power system containingan internal power source providing an integrated display meanscomprising an LCD screen; and providing detecting means structurallyunattached to the housing.
 20. The method of claim 19, including:providing the power system with a plurality of power supplies with eachpower supply providing a power ranging from about 20 kV to about 50 kV;and providing the x-ray source with a shielding comprising a low-densityinsulating material containing a high-Z substance.
 21. A method foranalysis, comprising: providing a digital x-ray camera with a housingcontaining an x-ray source, an integrated power system having aninternal power source, and an integrated display means comprising an LCDscreen, with detecting means structurally unattached to the housing; andpowering the x-ray source using the integrated power system.
 22. Themethod of claim 21, including: providing the power system with aplurality of power supplies with each power supply providing a powerranging from about 20 kV to about 50 kV; and providing the x-ray sourcewith a shielding comprising a low-density insulating material containinga high-Z substance.
 23. A method for dental imaging, comprising:providing a digital x-ray camera with a housing containing an x-raysource, an integrated power system having an internal power source, andan integrated display means comprising an LCD screen, with detectingmeans structurally unattached to the housing; and powering the x-raysource using the integrated power system so that x-rays impinge in theteeth of a patient.
 24. The method of claim 23, including: providing thepower system with a plurality of power supplies with each power supplyproviding a power ranging from about 20 kV to about 50 kV; and providingthe x-ray source with a shielding comprising a low-density insulatingmaterial containing a high-Z substance.
 25. The device of claim 1,further comprising a controllable display means.
 26. The device of claim25, wherein the controllable display means is integrated into thehousing.
 27. The device of claim 25, wherein the controllable displaymeans is external to the x-ray device.
 28. The device of claim 25,wherein the controllable display means comprises a portable electronicdevice.
 29. The device of claim 9, wherein the device has a high currentload for radiographic imaging.
 30. A portable x-ray device, comprising:a housing containing an x-ray source and an internal power source;controllable display means integrated into the housing and comprising anLCD screen; and detecting means structurally unattached to the housing.31. The device of claim 30, wherein the device has a high current loadfor radiographic imaging.
 32. The device of claim 30, wherein the x-raysource is located in a first portion of a housing and the internal powersource is located in the second portion of the housing.
 33. The deviceof claim 31, wherein the housing is configured for a user to hold thesecond portion and orient the first portion in the desired direction foremitting the x-rays.